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The family of a man from Gateshead who was murdered in December of last year have released a statement appealing for people to come forward with information about his death.

John Roberts was found dead inside his home in Park Terrace on December 16th and was found to have died from a serious head injury.

His family have released the following statement:

"Whoever killed John is still out there and we would appeal for anyone who may know who did this or anyone that may have heard anything about his murder to contact the police with any information they have.

John was only still young and had so much potential and life left to live. He will never be able to fulfil this and all we ask now is that whoever has done this is brought to justice.

John was well known throughout the area and especially among Newcastle United supporters. He loved the football club and had many friends and associates through his love of football.

– Family of John Roberts

"We'd like to thank everyone for their kind words about John that we have seen in the media and also the messages we have had from friends and family.

We really need anyone who knows who did this to John to come forward and help police catch them."